All articles from Susan DeMersseman

Sheryl Sandberg's 'Ban Bossy' campaign aims to empower girls by encouraging leadership without labels. One school psychologist points out that there are a lot of nuances to dealing with bossiness, more than just banning the label.

While many parents grapple with an "empty nest" once their kids leave home, some enjoy the presence of their adult children for longer than expected. It's up to each family to gauge what works, and when it's best for kids to leave for good.

With college students tucked into their dorm rooms, empty nesters see new real estate in their old rooms, but kids may expect find their old bedroom intact. Head off conflict by discussing the transition together.

Christmas parenting wisdom from a grandfather shapes a family culture: 'It's Jesus' birthday, not yours.' There’s a lot of empty space under our tree, but our homes are filled with friends and festivities.

Thanksgiving gratitude isn't only seasonal. Teaching gratitude and awareness of what is good in children's lives can rub off – there's so much to appreciate, from a cloud to a warm home to a good meal. Without that perspective, only the things kids don't have will seem important.

Jobs, bayonets, and the "apology tour" may make your family a presidential debate arena of its own – but how to talk politics with your kids is important to their development. While we may want our kids to share our values, we can help them understand why we hold these values and that even people who disagree are not evil.

Dealing with anxiety generated from family errands, work responsibilities and lists of things-to-do can easily overwhelm. Slowing down and allowing yourself space to live a full life, unhurried, requires a change in mindset.

Father's Day is a time to celebrate big brothers who fill a void in caring for their younger siblings. Whether it is fixing breakfast, brushing hair or walking them home, these 'little fathers' deserve recognition.

Free games needed for your kids this summer? Look no further then their own imaginations, give them unstructured time, and encourage creation. It can make a messy kitchen table, but too much media can create another kind of mess.

High school graduation sees loads of 4.0s head across the stage for honors on their way to Harvard. But most wonderful and successful people never went to the stage for an honor. The average student's potential is full of surprises.